Getting Your Layouts Published

How do you submit to magazines? What exactly does it take to get published? Is there a secret formula? Submitting your layouts for publication for the first time can be intimidating. Though we may never know exactly what magazines are looking for, following a few guidelines can help make the process easier, and hopefully lead to publication success.

Knowing What Magazines Are Looking For
Layouts that are well-designed, that have strong photographs and journaling, and that have a different take on ordinary events are strong candidates for being published.

Most magazines work at least 6 months ahead. In December they are looking for summer submissions, not Christmas or winter. Therefore, you have a better chance of getting a layout picked up if your submission is the right season. Many publications will also have a call for specific layouts they are looking for, listed on their websites.

www.scrap-source.com - Scrap-Source lists all the current calls and contests going on in the industry.

www.scrapsubmit.com - Scrapsubmit not only tells you what magazines calls, contests, and design team openings are available, but also provides a free service for scrapbookers to submit and track their layout submissions.

Creating Keepsakes Seeking and Submitting

Simple Scrapbooks Seeking and Submitting

Memory Makers Seeking

Memory Makers Submissions

PaperKuts Submissions
PaperKuts lists the type of pages they are seeking for future publications inside each issue of the magazine.

Scrapbooks, Etc.
Scrapbooks, Etc. lists the type of pages they are seeking for future publications inside each issue of the magazine.

Scrapbook Trends
Scrapbook Trends lists the type of pages they are seeking for future publications inside each issue of the magazine.

Scrapbooking.com

Keeping Track of Materials Used
At some point in the submission process publications will require a list of materials used. Certain magazines require this at the time of submission, while others request the list after your layout has been chosen. The best way to do this is to keep track of materials while creating the layout. This can be accomplished in several different ways:

• Create a form that you can write in materials as they are used and then slip it behind the layout in your page protector.
• Keep a list in a journal that you can refer to later.
• Write your supply list on the back of the layout.
• Type your list and save it on a CD.

*Tip: Sending in the supply list with your submission even if the magazine does not require it can be beneficial. Many times magazines are looking for certain products or techniques which may not be apparent by viewing the scan alone.

Scanning Your Submission
Scanning is the easiest way to present your pages to magazines. Scan your layout or project at 72dpi and resize so that the file size is less than 100K. Save the file in JPEG format. If you are taking digital pictures of your submission, make sure to take your layout out of the page protector to prevent glare. Photograph the layout using natural light for the best results. Here are some additional helpful articles:

Stitching with PaintShop Pro
Scanning with Adobe Photo Shop
Scanning Tips

For certain contests, submissions need to be mailed in. Sometimes an original layout is requested (such as Memory Makers Masters), but most of the time a color copy is all that is required. Make sure you read the fine print for submission details. If you need a 12 x 12 color copy, your local copy center can do this by copying your layout onto 11” x 17” paper and reducing it to 91%.

Sending Your Submissions
Now you are ready to send in your submission. You can use Scrap Submit, where you create a ScrapBio containing your personal information, or you can send them via your own e-mail. If e-mailing them through your personal e-mail, you should include the following information:

• Name
• Address
• Phone number
• E-mail address
• Title of layout
• Specific call
• Supply list
• Special techniques
• Journaling

Don’t forget to attach your scan.

If you are not able to scan your layout or take a digital photo, or if the publication specifically requests a mailed submission, you can submit color copies or printed photographs. Be sure to check the submission guidelines. To mail your submission, see the individual publication for addresses. Do not send an original layout unless it is requested by the magazine.

Waiting for the Call
If you submitted for a specific call, magazines usually contact submitters anywhere from 3-6 weeks after the deadline. Most publications will contact you by e-mail or by phone. If your layout does not get picked up for that specific call, many magazines keep it on file, and it is possible that it will be requested at a later date.

Mailing a Layout After It Has Been Requested
Publications will contact you if they want to use your layout for an upcoming issue. If you agree, then you will need to mail your original layout to them.

• Write your name, address, e-mail, and phone number on the back of your layout.
• Type out the supply list and slip your page and the list into a page protector.
• Sandwich the layout between two pieces of cardboard, taping 3 sides together so that the layout can be pulled out at the top.
• Optional: Wrap layout with bubble wrap.

You can use the priority mail boxes from USPS if you slip your layout into the box diagonally. A new pizza box is another option for mailing 12 x 12 layouts.

*Tip: If you have a one-of-a-kind photo on your layout, replace it with a reprint so you are ensured that nothing will happen to it. Publications take great care to protect layouts, but occasionally a mishap can occur.

Getting your layout published might seem like an impossible task. But by following these guidelines and being patient and persistent, it is possible to achieve that published scrapper status. Best of luck to you!